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Of course the band's penchant for infectious and often invigorating hooks remains staunchly preserved, but they've undeniably progressed here, and the results are nothing short of incredible. Commencing with the airy hum of "Sign of the Times", the quartet infuses a spacey elegance into a brooding build-up that sounds like The Doors' darkest fair. Vocalist and guitarist Adam Gontier echoes Jim Morrison with a menacing grin, "The sun burns as hot as a flame in the devil's eyes". Meanwhile, the guitars chime like impending doom approaching down the road. Quickly, everything cascades into an entrancing refrain that's undeniably Three Days Grace. It's the perfect fusion of the group's daring ethereal experimentation and hard rock punch.

Elsewhere, the first single "Chalk Outline" paints a vivid picture so catchy it's criminal, and "The High Road" shows just how potent Gontier's voice can be over a warm guitar tone. It's a stadium-size anthem carried to galactic heights by Neil Sanderson's massive drums and Brad Walst's bass thud. "Operate" glides on the tight interplay between Gontier and lead guitarist Barry Stock. One standout, "Happiness" infuses a thrash crunch into the melodic assault making for a potent and punch-y metal anthem.

Everything builds up to the acoustic strains of "Unbreakable". The album's best cut, it's elevated by Gontier's impeccable delivery and pensive lyrical musings. Plus, there's a hook that blasts off past the competition with an orchestral heft.

For those who worry about the state of rock 'n' roll, Transit of Venus is proof that the music's alive and well. Three Days Grace could've easily cranked out another Life Starts Now, but they challenge themselves and the zeitgeist—emerging victorious. Float away with one of the best hard rock records of the year.